South Korea Births Rise 3.1% to 242,334 in 2024 After Nine-Year Decline

Jan 3, 2025, 04:57 AM

South Korea recorded an increase in childbirths in 2024 for the first time in nine years, with 242,334 babies born, marking a 3.1% rise compared to the previous year. This marks a reversal after eight consecutive years of decline in birth rates, according to data from the Ministry of Interior. The gender breakdown of births showed 123,923 male and 118,411 female newborns. Despite this increase, South Korea's total population has been shrinking for five consecutive years, standing at 51.22 million in 2024, with a natural population decrease of 118,423. The country continues to grapple with one of the world's lowest fertility rates, and its population is aging rapidly, with individuals aged 65 or older now accounting for 20% of the total population. Efforts to address the demographic challenges include government policies aimed at encouraging childbirth, such as financial support for child-rearing and expanded parental leave benefits.